For most foreign tourists, Nagoya is just a place where the shinkansen stops for a moment between Tokyo and Kyoto. But Japan’s fourth largest city is really coming into its own with such attractions as the SC Maglev and Railway Park, Legoland Japan, a new airport and easy access to the nearby Ghibli Park.
Nagoya’s Oasis 21 “Spaceship Aqua”. Photo by Jun Kitayama
First: Nagoya Station
If you arrive at Meitetsu Nagoya Station by train, say when coming from Chubu Centrair International Airport, take a moment to look around. This is the busiest station in Japan. This underground station has seven types of trains (local, rapid, express, etc.) departing for 29 destinations, but there are only two tracks. The middle of the three platforms is for disembarking, and the two platforms on either side are color-coded and marked with boarding positions for different destinations. Various trains arrive here at intervals of about two minutes, disembarking and boarding passengers in a hurry before departing. The fact that it all runs smoothly is a testament to Japanese engineering, planning and social organization.
Nagoya Station – image © Kzaral / CC BY 2.0 DEED
At JR Nagoya Station, you might want to swing by Café Gentiane, which serves an absurdly popular pastry called a “Piyorin.” This sweet consists of custard pudding wrapped in Bavarian cream and coated with sponge powder. It is very delicate and fragile, and successfully bringing it back from Nagoya Station is called the “Piyorin Challenge.” You’ll be lucky to get one as they tend to sell out quickly.
Finally, when you exit from Meitetsu Nagoya Station, you will see a giant mannequin named “Nanachan” that stands 6 meters and 10 centimeters tall. “Born” in 1973, she sports various outfits ranging from bikinis to kimonos, depending on the season.
Exploring Nagoya
Transportation IC cards (Suica, Icoca, etc.) can be used on most transportation systems, including JR, Meitetsu, Kintetsu, subways, and buses. For getting around Nagoya, the Nagoya City Bus & Subway 1-Day Ticket (¥870) and the Nagoya Subway 24-Hour Ticket (¥760) are convenient. The Subway 24-Hour Ticket can be used for 24 hours from the time of first use (insertion into the ticket gate). Both tickets can be purchased at subway ticket vending machines (with English display). These tickets entitle you to various discounts under the Nagoya Toku Navi system. (To get your own IC card, see our comprehensive IC Card guide).
Higashiyama Line subway at Nagoya Station – image © Kzaral / CC BY 2.0 DEED
Things to Do in Nagoya
Nagoya Castle
During the 16th to 17th centuries, the three military commanders who unified Japan—Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu—were all from Nagoya or its vicinity. Collectively, they were known in Japan as the “Three Great Men.” Although Nagoya never became Japan’s capital, during the Edo period, it became the base of the Owari Tokugawa family, a branch of the Tokugawa family, and the vast Nagoya Castle was built.
Nagoya Castle – image © MIKI Yoshihito / CC BY 2.0 DEED
The current main keep was reconstructed in 1959, but its exterior faithfully reproduces the appearance of the Edo period castle. The roof of the keep is topped with a pair of golden shachihoko (a kind of Japanese sea monster thought to protect against fire by calling to mind water). They are made of 88 kilograms of gold and symbolize Nagoya’s prosperity.
Shachihoko. Photo by Jun Kitayama
In 2018, the Honmaru Palace (originally the lord’s residence, used as lodgings for the shogun at Nagoya Castle) was rebuilt, allowing visitors to see the luxurious interior enabled by immense wealth and power.
Finally, the Kinshachi Yokocho Mall in the admission-free area of the castle features branches of famous local eateries, offering a taste of Nagoya’s cuisine in one place.
Tokugawa-en Garden – image © Kanesue / CC BY 2.0 DEED
Tokugawa-en Garden and the Tokugawa Art Museum
About 3 kilometers west of Nagoya Castle lies Tokugawa-en Garden and the Tokugawa Art Museum. Originally, a villa of the Owari Tokugawa family,Tokugawa-en is a stroll garden where visitors can enjoy walking around the pond. It also houses restaurants and cafes.
The Tokugawa Art Museum houses parts of the vast collection amassed by the Owari Tokugawa family. The most famous piece is the national treasure “The Tale of Genji Scrolls.” Normally, reproductions are displayed, but special exhibitions of the actual scrolls are also held on special occasions.
Shikemichi Street. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Shikemichi and Endoji Shotengai
Shikemichi, southwest of Nagoya Castle, is a traditional street lined with white-walled storehouses, evoking the atmosphere of an Edo period merchant town. There are several cafes housed in old buildings, making it a good place to relax. Endoji Shotengai, connected to Shikemichi, is Nagoya’s oldest retro shopping street.
Atsuta-jingu Shrine. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Atsuta-jingu Shrine
Atsuta-jingu Shrine is a sprawling Shinto shrine is worth a look, particularly if you are not going to make the pilgrimage to the famous Ise-jingu Shrine (one of Japan’s most sacred shrines). And like Ise-jingu Shrine, Atsuta-jingu Shrine contains one of the three sacred treasures of the Shinto religion (in this case, the divine sword).
Ohsu Kannon Temple. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Ohsu District
The Ohsu district is Nagoya’s version of Asakusa, Tokyo’s famous funky “old town.” Just like Senso-ji in Asakusa, Ohsu Kannon in Ohsu also has a down-to-earth atmosphere. If you don’t mind being mobbed by pigeons, you can buy a handful of “pigeon beans” that are sold in the temple precincts.
Nagoya City Archives interior. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Nagoya City Archives
A stunning Neo-Baroque style building constructed in 1992, originally serving as a courthouse. The interior, including features like stained glass, is equally impressive. Despite being free to enter, it tends to be less crowded, allowing visitors to explore leisurely.
Choshokaku exterior. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Yokiso
Yokiso is a villa built by the first president of Matsuzakaya department store between 1918 and 1937. It’s divided into two sections, the Southern Garden and the Northern Garden, with notable structures like Choshokaku, built in a mountain villa style. The Northern Garden boasts a traditional Japanese garden layout.
Noritake Square tableware display. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Noritake Garden
Formerly the site of Noritake’s porcelain factory, this complex now features a park, museum, and other facilities. Notable areas include the Noritake headquarters, Six Chimneys, Welcome Center, and The Detached Kiln. The Noritake Square Nagoya stands out for its high-quality tableware selection.
Vermicular products on display. Photo by Jun Kityama
Vermicular Village
Facing the Nakagawa Canal, this village comprises the flagship shop of the popular Vermicular cookware brand. It has two sections: a product display area (Studio Area) and dining establishments (Dine Area). The Vermicular pot, a cast iron enamel pot released in 2010, is highly regarded for its precision and high sealing properties.
View from Higashiyama Sky Tower. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Higashiyama Zoo & Sky Tower
The expansive Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens house a wide variety of animals, including the famous gorilla Shabani. The Higashiyama Sky Tower, located nearby, offers panoramic views of the area.
Oasis 21 and Sky Tower. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Oasis 21 & Nagoya TV Tower
Oasis 21 is a multifaceted complex featuring commercial spaces, a park, and a bus terminal. Its main feature is the “Spaceship-Aqua,” which, as the name suggests, has the appearance of an alien craft descending from the heavens to enjoy the Sakae district.
Tamesaburo Memorial Museum Garden. Photo by Jun Kityama
Tamesaburo Memorial Museum
This is the former residence of businessman Furukawa Tamesaburo, who amassed a fortune through film distribution and other ventures. The Japanese-style mansion and garden, perched on a hillside, are well worth a visit. Furthermore, the entire memorial museum doubles as “Sukiya de Café,” where visitors can enjoy sets of matcha, coffee, amazake, and sweets in a cozy atmosphere. With an entrance fee of ¥500 and a set menu for ¥800, it’s a pretty special experience for the mere price of ¥1300.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
This excellent museum is not just a homage to Toyota cars, but to industry and engineering in general. There are some amazing classic cars on display and some good interactive displays. Considering its proximity to downtown Nagoya, this is pretty much a must-see for fans of automotive technology and most kids will love the place.
Legoland Japan. Photo by Chris Rowthorn
Legoland Japan
If you’re traveling with young-ish children (say, 10 years of age or younger), you shouldn’t miss Legoland Japan. It’s only 24 minutes south of Nagoya Station and it’s easily paired with a visit to the SC Maglev Museum (see following). For all the details on Legoland, visit our full Legoland Japan Guide. You can buy Legoland tickets in advance from Klook.
SC Maglev and Railway Park. Photo by Chris Rowthorn
SC Maglev and Railway Park
A mere 24 minutes from Nagoya Station, the SC Maglev and Railway Park is a must for rail fans of all ages. The name suggests that it focuses only on Japan’s maglev train projects, but the museum actually has a full collection of trains ranging from steam engines to shinkansen. As noted above, it’s easily paired with a visit to Legoland (above). For more details, check out our SC Maglev and Railway Park guide.
Ghibli Park
About 45 minutes west of Nagoya Station, Ghibli Park is a new attraction based around the anime films of Hayao Miyazaki. While the park has a lot of potential, it’s still in its early stages and many visitors will feel distinctly underwhelmed. Read online reviews carefully before devoting a day or half day to this park. Klook offers a one-day Ghibli Park tour from Nagoya.
Daijin Honten izakaya. Photo by Jun Kitayama
What to Eat in Nagoya
Nagoya’s unique food culture and cuisine is collectively referred to as “Nagoya meshi” (Nagoya chow). Of course, in a city the size of Nagoya, you can sample almost every major Japanese speciality, as well as many international cuisines. Here, we’ll focus mostly on Nagoya meshi.
Many of Nagoya’s signature dishes make use of red miso, which is produced in the area. This gives a lot of the dishes a reddish-black and slightly grotesque appearance, but don’t let the looks deceive you: most of these dishes are seriously tasty. Here are a few great examples of Nagoya’s red miso specialities:
Daruma izakaya. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Miso Oden at Daruma
A large izakaya within walking distance from the Royal Park Hotel, Daruma offers a wide range of Nagoya meshi dishes and has both counter seats and private rooms, making it suitable for foreign travelers. Oden consists of a variety of foods stewed in a broth (in this case, a broth infused with red miso). The photo shows Daruma’s “Miso Oden Assortment”. It just looks like a red and black mess, and it’s hard to tell what’s what, but it’s pretty darn tasty.
Pork misodote at Daijin Honten. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Misodote at Daijin Honten
This rustic joint is often called the pinnacle of izakaya dining in Japan, which is saying an awful lot. The ordering method is unique, which might be a bit challenging for foreign travelers. But the atmosphere is excellent. Generally, a dish simmered in soybean miso and mirin (a kind of Japanese cooking wine) is called “doteni”. The photo shows pork misodote. We suggest washing it down with hot sake from barrel, which is warmed up on a kamado (stove) for each order. This sake has a strong scent of cedar from the sake barrel, which is something of a rarity in Japan.
Misokatsu Don at Ajidokoro Kanou
Misokatsu is tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) with miso sauce instead of the usual sauce. Kanou is said to be one of the originators of misokatsu. “Misokatsu don” is (shown in the photo), is a bowl of rice topped with a miso-covered tonkatsu. For travelers, Yabaton, the most famous purveyor of misokatsu is probably a bit more approachable (see the map below).
Misonikomi udon at Okute Yamamotoya. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Misonikomi Udon at Okute Yamamotoya
Misonikomi udon is udon noodles simmered in red miso and Yamamotoya is the place to try it. Since it’s too hot to eat directly from the earthen pot, you remove the lid and eat it on a plate. The udon is firm and remarkably tasty.
Now, here are some Nagoya dishes that aren’t made with red miso.
Taiwan ramen at Misen Sumiyoshiten. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Taiwan Ramen at Misen Sumiyoshiten
Inspired by the Taiwanese noodle dish “danzi mian,” “Taiwan ramen” is the signature dish of the Chinese restaurant Misen in Nagoya. It’s topped with minced meat stir-fried with chili peppers and garlic, and the soup is so wicked spicy. Misen has several branches around town and locals say that each one serves a slightly different version of Taiwan ramen.
Yamadaya udon restaurant. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Kishimen at Yamadaya
Kishimen are flat udon-like noodles that are a speciality of Nagoya. This old-fashioned diner near the Nagoya City Archives is not a kishimen specialist (it also serves regular udon and rice bowls), but the kishimen here is fabulous, which explains the long lines outside at lunchtime.
Shinoda udon at Kameju. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Shinoda Udon at Kameju Honten
“Shinoda” is a dish where chopped aburaage (fried tofu), green onions, and kamaboko (fish cake) are served atop a bowl of udon noodles. There are also “Shinoda soba” and “Shinoda kishimen” besides udon. This shop serves them all. It’s a plain and understated dish, but it’s filling and tasty.
“Morning” at Cook Town. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Coffee at Cook Town
Many Japanese cafes and kissaten (old-style coffee shops) serve something called a “morning” or a “morning set”. A typical “morning” includes a cup of coffee, a piece of thick toast and a boiled egg. Many places in Nagoya include the toast and egg for free when you order coffee in the morning and some places offer this all day long. Near Nagoya Station, Cook Town offers 4 slices of egg toast for free if you order a drink like coffee (450 yen) before 10am. It’s warm egg toast, not premade, so it’s sufficient for breakfast. Frankly, we don’t understand how they make a profit here.
Coffee and toast set at Dia Coffee. Photo by Jun Kityama
Coffee & Toast Set at Dia Coffee
Coffee at this friendly café costs ¥400, but for an extra ¥100, you can toast with red bean paste and whipped cream until 11am. A bit reminiscent of the sweet honey toast served at Hong Kong breakfast joints, this peculiar dish is strangely appealing and you might find yourself going back for more.
Hitsumabushi. Photo by Jun Kitayama
Hitsumabushi at Ibashou
Hitsumabushi is a dish where finely chopped grilled eel (unagi) is placed on top of rice in a wooden rice container called “ohitsu,” and you eat it by scooping a little at a time into a bowl with a rice paddle. There are three ways to enjoy it: 1) as it is, 2) with added green onions and wasabi, or 3) as ochazuke (rice with tea poured over it). It is absolutely delicious. This elegant traditional restaurant is said to be the birthplace of hitsumabushi.
Getting To Nagoya
Nagoya is only 34 minutes from Kyoto and 1 hour and 39 minutes from Tokyo on the Tokaido shinkansen (Nozomi). It’s only 28 minutes from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Nagoya on the Nagoya Railway’s μSKY Limited Express. You can purchase tickets from machines in the train station or buy in advance online from Klook.
Where to Stay in Nagoya
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya is the perfect base for exploring Nagoya with its prime location in the heart of the Sakae district, Nagoya’s main downtown hub.
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya exterior
The Iconic Nagoya occupies the top floors of the Chunichi Building, one of the taller buildings in Nagoya, and the views from all the guest rooms are spectacular. The rooms and public areas of the hotel are designed to showcase the artistic and craft traditions of the Chubu (Central Japan) region and the entire hotel has the feel of a luxurious refuge in the sky.
Premium twin room
Convenience is key at The Iconic Nagoya. From Nagoya Station (where the shinkansen stops) to Sakae Station, it’s only a 5-minute ride on the Higashiyama Line, just two stops away. Whether arriving via Sakae Station or nearby subway stations, the Iconic Nagoya is extremely easy to get to and makes exploring the city a breeze.
Superior twin room
From the elegant public spaces adorned with traditional Japanese motifs to the culinary delights of Chinese Restaurant SHUNJU and the captivating allure of BAR SOU, the hotel has an air of restrained luxury and opulence. And on sunny days, you will love The 7th TERRACE.
The 7th TERRACE
After a day of sightseeing, nothing feels better than a soak in a hot sauna. The sauna at the Iconic Nagoya has a window that allows you to soak in the night view of the city as you soak – which adds a whole new dimension to the sauna experience.
Sauna
For those seeking a peaceful base in the heart of Nagoya, with generous nods to local Japanese traditional arts and crafts, the Iconic Nagoya is an obvious choice.
Name in English:
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya
Name in Japanese:
ザ ロイヤルパークホテル アイコニック名古屋
English address:
460-0008
Chunichi Building 24F
4-1-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya
Japanese address:
〒460-0008
名古屋市中区栄4-1-1
中日ビル24F
Price: Moderate
Internet: Free Wifi
Non-smoking rooms: Yes
Nearest Transport:
1-minute walk from Exit 13 of Nagoya Subway Higashiyama Line/Meijo Line Sakae Station
Telephone: 81-52-269-1118
Website: official website
:: Check availability and pricing for The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagoya-Sakuradoriguchi
For those on a tight budget looking who want the convenience of staying near Nagoya Station, the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagoya-Sakuradoriguchi is an excellent choice.
Sotetsu Fresa entrance
About five minutes’ walk from Nagoya Station, the Sotetsu Fresa is a classic business hotel with everything you need for a few nights in the city.
Sotetsu Fresa guest room.
Rooms are compact, which is what you expect at these prices, but they’re well maintained out outfitted.
Sotetsu Fresa check-in counter
With a convenience store on site and endless shopping and restaurants just outside the front door, this is a handy spot for those just looking for a clean place to lay their head.
Name in English:
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagoya-Sakuradoriguchi
Name in Japanese:
相鉄フレッサイン 名古屋駅桜通口
English address:
4-4-15 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya-shi
Japanese address:
名古屋市中村区名駅4-4-15
Price: Budget
Internet: Free WiFi
Non-smoking rooms: Yes
Nearest Transport:
5-minute walk from Nagoya Station
Telephone: 81-52-551-2031
Website: official website
:: Check availability and pricing for Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagoya-Sakuradoriguchi on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
TIAD, Autograph Collection
The Nagoya TIAD Autograph Collection Hotel is a strong choice in the luxury bracket with a convenient location and extremely comfortable rooms.
TIAD, Autograph Collection exterior
Very close to the Yabacho subway station, the TIAD makes a great base for exploring Nagoya.
The rooms are stylish and quite spacious, and those on the upper floors boast excellent views over the city.
Euphoria Deluxe Twin Room
The gym, pool and sauna are all welcome features after a day of sightseeing or a long flight.
TIAD lobby area
For those collecting Marriot points, the TIAD is a great choice in Nagoya.
Name in English:
TIAD, Autograph Collection
Name in Japanese:
TIAD，オートグラフ コレクション
English address:
5-15-19 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya
Japanese address:
名古屋市中区栄5-15-19
Price: Luxury
Internet: Free WiFi
Non-smoking rooms: Yes
Nearest Transport:
1-minute walk from Yabacho Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway
Telephone: 81-52-252-2288
Website: official website
:: Check availability and pricing for the TIAD, Autograph Collection on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Nagoya Map
The Nagoya map shows the location of each of the places mentioned. You can view a full screen version too.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
